Hi All:
It is the head of the New Year for Jew's around the world. To me that means traditional and maybe not so traditional meals with family and friends. In the United States we celebrate with honey and apples. I am lucky to be in central Illinois where there is still a family farm tradition and where even someone with a few acres can produce fresh floral honey and crisp sweet tart apples.
A friend of mine, Dave, has supplied me with freshest honey I've ever had the last two years. My husband has reminded me to return the empty ball jar, which I hope secretly will be replenished. The Honey Cake recipe I make each year is all the more sweet with the addition of the nectar from his bees. A cup of coffee and frozen orange juice concentrate spiced with cinnamon and allspice rounds out the recipe. It is my favorite honey cake, moist, and never dry like so many others. It can be found in the Days of Awe section of the "Jewish Holiday Cookbook: An International Collection of Recipes and Customs" by Gloria Kaufer Greene.
It is my tradition to throw away the baking powder and baking soda I bought last year at this same time. I replenish my cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg as I prepare my Cupboard for the baking opportunities that lie ahead and define autumn for me and my family. Apple, pumpkin and pecan pie! Oh, my!
Which brings me to the point of this particular edition. I've been anticipating the arrival of a purchase I made the other day. Tung Hing Cinnamon, Turkish Oregano, Zatar (a spice blend I have not been acquainted with before) Szechuan peppercorns, Ajwain from India and beautiful Turkish Bay leaves so long and delicate all purchased from Penzy's at www.penzeys.com
You see, the key to being a Cupboard Cook is to have a well stocked pantry with basic ingredients like honey, fresh herbs and spices. With these on hand you can turn almost any other refrigerated or pantry item into a sumptuous meal. Or, better yet into a travel adventure the whole family and your friends will enjoy from your very own kitchen.
From my cupboard to yours.... Happy eating
Elissa
